Highway tow thieves take soldier’s truck

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An Oklahoma City soldier and his family are asking for your help after someone stole their broken-down truck right off of the highway Thursday afternoon between 1:30 and 2:00.

Two tours in the Middle East and this national guard staff Sergent still tears up knowing thieves took his 1979 red Chevy truck.

"All the memories about the kids in it. It was unbelievable to see CJ's face when we went for a ride. Then to have my oldest out there with me working on it." said Staff Sgt. Robert Hampton.

Hampton says his truck broke down when he was getting on 235 at the 23rd St. exit. His wife picked him up to get some tools, and when they got back 30 minutes later, the truck was gone.

Police believe highway tow hiesters stole the truck. The thieves prey on those who leave broken cars on the side of the road.

"We do have individuals out there that do have the towing capability in the back of a pickup truck where they let the tailgate down, flop out the tow mechanism, lift the car and drive off with it," said Capt. Dexter Nelson with OKCPD.

In broad daylight the tow terrors took Hampton's truck in front of dozens of drivers.

The soldier's uniforms were inside the truck so whoever stole it, knew they were stealing from a military man.

"It upset me someone would do that to someone else, especially being Oklahomans," said Holly Hampton.

Their family just wants their truck back.

"It's been like a family member for us. Nothing flashy or expensive but more memorable," said Holly.

"It looks a little rough on the outside, but there's lots of memories built in it," said Staff Sgt. Hampton.

Hampton's license plate number is 810JZU.

If you know any information about this truck, you can call Crime Stoppers at 405-235-7300. you could get a cash reward for calling in information to police.